Gladius mainzensis Scabbard top used during the early and mid 1st Century
AD. The upper
attachment
clamping the wooden pieces of the scabbard together near the hilt of the
sword. Ornate openwork symmetric design pattern on plate,
with hearts and stars around a central point.
The hearts are punched out and are actually made by two side by side
circles with a triangular end. An adaptive use of the tools to make
a more unique design.

The top of the
scabbard is curled outwards, which is believed to have provided a "lip" to
help keep water out of the scabbard.

There are two
"legs" now partially broken, which would have attached to a further bronze plate in
ancient times. This ornate pattern would have
continued down the length of the scabbard creating a wonderful sword
scabbard/locket.

Visible silvering
still remains on the surface indicating that it would have been very
visible during its use. This sword most likely did not belong to an
auxiliary, but to a soldier of more wealth and stature. (1)